Sohu.com(US:SOHU) Jing Ji Guan Cha Wang·2025-12-30 01:45Core Insights - The article highlights the journey of Zhang Chaoyang, the founder of Sohu, emphasizing his transformation from a rebellious student to a prominent figure in the internet industry, and his recent return to the forefront of the company after a period of personal and professional challenges [3][4][19]. Group 1: Early Career and Founding of Sohu - Zhang Chaoyang's early life was marked by a rebellious spirit during his studies at MIT, where he developed an interest in the internet and technology [5][6]. - In the mid-1990s, recognizing the potential of the internet in China, Zhang returned to China to establish Sohu, facing significant challenges in securing funding due to the lack of a venture capital culture at the time [8][10]. - Sohu became the first Chinese startup to attract venture capital, with investments from notable figures such as Nicholas Negroponte and Edward Roberts [11]. Group 2: Growth and Challenges - Sohu went public on NASDAQ in 2000, raising approximately $300 million, which marked a significant milestone for the company [13][14]. - Despite initial success, Sohu faced difficulties in monetizing its services due to inadequate payment infrastructure, leading to a focus on SMS services and online gaming for revenue generation [14][18]. - Zhang Chaoyang's leadership style evolved as he navigated the complexities of corporate governance and investor expectations, ultimately choosing to remain at the helm of the company despite pressures to step down [12][18]. Group 3: Personal Crisis and Recovery - Zhang experienced a personal crisis around 2011, which he described as a culmination of years of pressure and the challenges of maintaining success in a rapidly changing industry [19]. - His recovery involved a deep introspection and a shift in focus towards personal responsibility and a commitment to product quality, leading to a more hands-on approach in Sohu's operations [20][24]. - Since 2019, Zhang has re-engaged with the company, emphasizing the importance of product usage and innovation, particularly in video and social media [20][21]. Group 4: Current Strategy and Future Outlook - Sohu is now focusing on video content and self-media as a new strategic direction, with Zhang actively participating in content creation and product testing [21][23]. - The company aims to leverage Zhang's personal brand to enhance its video and live-streaming business, while maintaining a cautious approach towards emerging technologies like AI [23][24]. - Sohu's recent financial performance indicates a recovery, with gaming revenues contributing positively, and the company remains committed to ethical business practices amidst industry challenges [23][26].